The Environmental Protection Agency has extended the registration for two years for over-the-top use of dicamba to control weeds in cotton and soybean fields. This registration will be valid until Dec 2020.
“EPA understands that dicamba is a valuable pest control tool for America’s farmers with pest control san diego,” said EPA Acting Administrator Andrew Wheeler. “By extending the registration for another two years with important new label updates that place additional restrictions on the product, we are providing certainty to all stakeholders for the upcoming growing season.”
While the label was renewed, there are some important changes you should note for the 2019 and 2020 seasons. These label updates were designed to continue to help limit the off-target impact of dicamba. All 3 dicamba products (XtendiMax, Engenia, FeXapan) will have the same label. Some of the important changes are below:
- Only certified applicators (RUP license holders) may apply dicamba over the top. Those working under the supervision of a certified applicator may no longer make applications.
- Prohibit over-the-top application of dicamba on soybeans 45 days after planting and cotton 60 days after planting (cut-off date is not necessary)
- The number of over-the-top applications remains at 2 for soybeans.
- Applications will be allowed only from 1 hour after sunrise to 2 hours before sunset
- In counties where endangered species may exist (around 290 counties nationwide), the downwind buffer will remain at 110 feet and there will be a new 57-foot buffer around the other sides of the field (the 110-foot downwind buffer applies to all applications, not just in counties where endangered species may exist)
- Clarify the training period for 2019 and beyond, ensuring consistency across all three products
- Enhanced tank cleanout instructions for the entire system
- Enhanced label to improve applicator awareness on the impact of low pH’s on the potential volatility of dicamba
- States may use Sec. 24 to establish a more or less restrictive label.
The use of dicamba in accordance with the label is an effective tool for weed management for many growers, but it’s imperative soybean growers read and follow the label to limit off-target injury to sensitive crops.
